WrestleMania XXVI: Part II

Is C.M. Punk's Straightedge Soceity the enemy, or Rey Mysterio?

Three years ago at WrestleMania, a young wrestler from Chicago, Illinois, representing the new class of ECW, competed in the annual Money in the Bank ladder match in a losing effort. Since then, and thereafter, the name C.M. Punk has become synonymous with Money in the Bank; because he is the only one to ever win the Money in the Bank match two consecutive years. However, fans were behind C.M. Punk until his decision to cash in on a newly crowned Jeff Hardy; which was hypocritical since, just the year before, fans cheered on Punk when he cashed in on an assaulted Edge (heel) to capture his first World Heavyweight Title.

The backlash from the fans has reverted Punk back to his heel gimmick from his Ring of Honor Wrestling days. Aligned with a close group of devout followers, C.M. Punk has become something close to Christ-like. Many even have gone as far as to label Punk as the anti-Christ, and after looking at his new t-shirt (a demented C.M. Punk caricature surrounded by a ring of flowers) he very well may be just that. C.M. Punk has taken it upon himself to lead this crusade of cleansing the masses from the damaging effects of drugs and alcohol, which he has successfully accomplished with Luke Gallows and Serena. But he has his sights set on one particular recruit by the name of Rey Mysterio. The reason being Mysterio interfered in C.M. Punk’s Money in the Bank Qualifying Match.

Guaranteeing the crowning of a new Mr. Money in the Bank, Rey Mysterio is considered the hero of the story, but is he? It seems to be Mysterio's M.O. to sabotage former champions' efforts from recapturing the World Title. In a Fatal Four-way match at Bragging Rights, Mysterio cost Batista the title; and most recently, he thwarted C.M. Punk’s dreams of becoming a 3-time Money in the Bank winner, and no less, a 4-time World Champion.

Since turning heel, C.M. Punk has attempted to cleanse the WWE one superstar at a time. The first success was eliminating Jeff Hardy from the WWE, the leader of the screw-ups in the world. Then by belittling the Undertaker in a fixed submission match at Breaking Point. And now, his crowning achievement is to cleanse Rey Mysterio and convert him into a Straightedge follower.

It’s no secret that Rey Mysterio has had problems with drugs and alcohol, as he confesses to, in his book Rey Mysterio: Behind the Mask, admitting himself to rehab. Hence, why C.M. Punk set the stipulation if Mysterio were to lose this WrestleMania match, he would have to take Punk’s hand and pledge a straightedge life. However, WrestleMania did not pan out exactly how C.M. Punk envisioned the reckoning of his Straightedge Society. In a highly fast-paced match with numerous GTS and 619 attempts, it was Mysterio who came out on top. Punk avoided the 619 on two occasions, one by catching Mysterio and following through with a GTS, and when Serena protected him from the second attempt. Despite the perfect strategy by C.M. Punk to place both Serena and Luke Gallows at opposite sides of the ring, Mysterio managed to knock over Gallows and quickly connected with the 3rd and final 619.

Rey Mysterio may have gotten away this time, but with WWE returning to Maryland with Extreme Rules, expect the Straightedge Society to retaliate.

WWE Superstars Results: 3/25/10 - C.M. Punk and Rey Mysterio Build towards WrestleMania

WWE Superstars Layeth the SmackDown!

C.M. Punk vs. JTG

Due to time constraints of filling every WWE program with WrestleMania video packages, the final matches for Rey Mysterio and C.M. Punk before facing each other at WrestleMania were scheduled to take place on WWE Superstars.

C.M. Punk took on JTG in a highly unorthodox match up. The team of Cryme Tyme were left out of this year's WrestleMania once again after losing the contenders match for the Unified Tag Team Titles. Yet, it should be an honor for JTG to take on a former 3x World Champion for the sake of putting him over at WrestleMania.

The concept of this match was to brace C.M. Punk for Rey Mysterio. But why JTG? Because he is fast and unpredictable, which is the type of in-ring competitor that Rey is.

The match ended with Punk scoring the victory with the GTS. If Punk really wanted to ready himself for his match, he should have challenged Evan Bourne or Kofi Kingston, which would have provided for an intense high flying match.

Tyson Kidd's WrestleMania

Rey Mysterio vs. Tyson Kidd

Rey Mysterio took on The Hart Dynasty's Tyson Kidd as he prepared for C.M. Punk. Rey has a lot riding on his 'Mania match. First off, he has to defend his family's honor; and secondly, if he loses, he will have to join the Straightedge Society. And if that were the case, he may have to lose the mask.

This match between Tyson Kidd and Rey Mysterio has been dubbed Tyson Kidd's WrestleMania (by me) because he gets to go one on one with a former World Champion on WrestleMania week. Tyson Kidd is a perfect fit for Mysterio because he is similar to Punk's striking power.

Tyson started off the match with a wrist lock followed by an armlock. Then Rey Mysterio kicked up the pace by throwing in a missed bulldog into a Steamboat arm drag, but Tyson able to match the speed managed to stay on his feet. And this was where Tyson became dangerous because he grounded Mysterio with kicks, punches, and elbow shots to shoulders. But when Mysterio set up for the 619, that's when the Harts provided the distractions.

The Harts really turned the match around by allowing Tyson enough momentum to pick up Mysterio and ram him into the barricades. Then Tyson countered Mysterio's flying headbutt with a drop kick in mid air. And an abdominal stretch while digging his elbow to the outstretch side of Rey Mysterio. Tyson Kidd would just not let up as he also executed a springboard face buster from the top ropes and went for another 2 count. However, Tyson slipped off the second rope while trying to execute the double jump moonsault, but it wouldn't be the end just yet as he sustained more offense from Mysterio.

The match ended with Mysterio striking with the 619 after Tyson became to cocky in his rising momentum that caused him to be layed out with a huricanrana which would lead up to the 619.

SmackDown Results: 3/19/10 - 1 Week Remains

Dolph Ziggler Perfect Momentum
MVP and Matt Hardy vs. Jack Swagger and Dolph Ziggler

Matt Hardy and MVP teaming up brings back memories of when they were the WWE Tag Team Champions back in 2007. Certainly things have changed over the years as MVP (fan favorite) is now friends with Matt.

As for Dolph Ziggler and Jack Swagger, what could be better than to pair up two young and brash superstars in this match up which showcases the emerging of rising superstars?

Every match that these superstars compete in is so important because they are jocking to become the next face of the WWE. We've seen what Money in the Bank has done to the careers of Edge and C.M. Punk, imagine what it can do for the likes of either of these four men if they were to win?

And talk about young and up and coming, Dolph Ziggler scored the victory by connecting the Zig Zag on MVP. After the match, Dolph set up the ladder and took down the Briefcase. At the apex of the ladder is where one takes the next step of realizing their dreams of becoming World Champion, will it be Dolph Ziggler?

A Vickie's Scorn!
Beth Phoenix and Tiffany vs. Michelle McCool and Layla

Last week, Tiffany went from GM to WWE Diva as she had her first match against the Women's Champion, Michelle McCool. But a disqualification at the hands of Vickie Guerrero, led to Beth Phoenix coming to her aid. In this match up, Beth Phoenix and Tiffany took on Michelle McCool and Layal.

Beth Phoenix dominated the match in the early going until she tagged in Tiffany. Her inexperience allowed her to be double teamed by LayCool.

Tiffany managed to tag out due to her rescillence. Beth ended the match by evading the Faith Breaker and going for The Glam Slam on McCool. Then it was announced that Beth would take on Vickie Guerrero in a test of her authority status.

The Cutting Edge: Guest Chris Jericho w/Wade Barret

Edge has factored down his Championship match against Chris Jericho down to one move, one word - Spear. But there are so many other factors and variables. Chris Jericho won the World Title from Undertaker inside the Elimination Chamber. Edge is not fully healed from his Achilles tendon.

Unlike the Highlight Reel from last week, it was Edge who caught Jericho with a mic shot. Edge struck with the spear on Wade Barret but was struck with the Code Breaker by Jericho.

Jericho than added the exclamation point with a foot stop on the recovering Achilles Tendon of Edge.

Truth? The Hart Dynasty are Better
John Morrison and R-Truth vs. The Hart Dynasty

Possibly the most idiotic move on WWE's part to team John Morrison and R-Truth to take on the Unified Tag Team Champions. Albeit, Morrison and Truth are rising stars but they do not belong in a tag team match.

Three individuals who have made it their life's goal to surpass their predecessors are The Hart Dynasty. With Bret Hart, a man who vowed never to set foot back into the WWE, having his final match against Vince McMahon at this years WrestleMania, it would have been proper to have the Harts contending at this year's WrestleMania. The fact that WWE has barely taken the time to build these future legends is credited to their ongoing lack of appreciation for tag teams. These are the kids of the legendary Hart Foundation and British Bulldogs, and they have what it takes to not allow the tag team division to just fade away.

The match between John Morrison and R-Truth against The Hart Dynasty went rather quick. Morrison started off the match, took most of the beating, then tagged in Truth to strike Tyson Kidd with the Lie Detector as he kept David Hart Smith from breaking the cover.

Morrison and Truth have amassed another win as Miz has been absent from RAW, NXT, and SmackDown. Yet, the Big Show scored a major victory over John Cena during this week's WrestleMania Rewind.

Street fight or Straightedge?
Luke Gallows vs. Rey Mysterio

For weeks, the pending match between Rey Mysterio and C.M. Punk at WrestleMania awaited for a confirmation. What type of match would these two compete in? My original idea of a Luchas de Apuestas match (Hair vs. Mask) was thrown out the window since the match has been decided on a Street Fight.

Rey Mysterio accepted Punk's WrestleMania challenge, and requested that match be a Street Fight. With Bret Hart and Vince McMahon having a No Holds Barred match, how is Punk-Mysterio's match different?

C.M. Punk also instilled a stipulation, if Rey loses to "the Right Hand of the Straightedge Soceity," Luke Gallows, and lose at WrestleMania as well, then Rey would have to take Punk's hand and pledge the straightedge life.

C.M. Punk showed photos taken from last week to illustrate Rey's daughter's lost of faith in her father. He explained that straightedge will help Rey become the man that his family expects him to be.

In the Straightedge Society, Luke Gallows is the muscels, while Serena, as she exhibitied in this match, provides the distractions. Rey Mysterio lost the match to Luke Gallows, which establishes the stipulation that if Rey loses at 'Mania, he must join the Straightedge Society. But Rey destroyed Luke Gallows at the end of the match. A similar intensity of when Batista destroyed Mysterio at the end of their Bragging Rights match.

At WrestleMania: Rey Mysterio vs. C.M. Punk (If Mysterio loses he must join the Straightedge Society).

The Heart Break Kid Strikes Back!
The Undertaker vs. Drew McIntyre

Teddy Long issued this main-event match to symbolize Drew McIntyre's "undefeated" streak against Undertaker who has a real Undefeated Streak. Knowing full well that McIntyre indeed lost to both Kane and Matt Hardy, Long felt it prudent to teach McIntyre what a real Undefeated streak meant.

The Undertaker is a really scary individual as he looks on with dark eyes and grabs and pulls you out of the ring. The imagery is that of a demon or hellhound dragging down cursed souls to the depths of hell. But McIntyre asserted himself with a side scoop slam.

The match ended with a choke slammed followed by the Tombstone Pile driver. Last week, having destroyed four men in the ring (Cryme Tyme and Hart Dynasty), Undertaker has been sending Michaels a message that his career is coming to an end. But when Undertaker walked up that ramp and looked back at the brash young version of Shawn Michaels, The Heart Break Kid, Shawn Michaels surprised him with a super kick.

What started out as a slow build up of talking and video packages has now become phsyical. In one week, The Streak vs. The Career.

SmackDown Results: 3/12/10 - Punk's Challenge and Show's Dominance

Mysterio in Family Feuds?

As Rey shared his personal life to the WWE Universe and started singing to his daughter Aaliyah on her birthday, C.M. Punk, and The Straightedge Society, interrupted the festivities.

Mysterio's family were scared, especially little Aaliyah who was in tears at C.M. Punk's frighting melody. Either the Mysterio household never bothered to follow up on Rey's feud with C.M. Punk, or Punk smells worse than he looks. The latter is probably untrue, but the Mysterio household, I feel, was forced into this storyline.

Punk issued a WrestleMania challenge to Rey Mysterio, while demeaning him in front of his family, calling him a pathetic coward. Mysterio has not yet accepted Punk's challenge, but with only two weeks left till WrestleMania, Punk is definitely creating some intense animosity.

Bottom of the Poll for Luke Gallows

Impressively taking on Rey Mysterio last week, Luke Gallows tested his strenghts with Kane. Against one of the more established giants in the WWE, Luke Gallows went hold for hold against Kane. Even at times, Luke appeared dominate, with a suplex, and a standing frog splash.

Kane somehow managed to win the match with a chokeslam. Yet, the Straightedge Society would not be outdone as Punk struck Kane with the GTS.

Miz-erable Week for Miz

The Miz ended the week 0-3 against R-Truth. Miz was on the opposing side of a beat down by Truth and Morrison on RAW. The Miz, in a tag team match with Daniel Bryan, was pinned by Otunga and Truth on NXT. And thanks to Bryan, Miz lost his singles match against Truth on SmackDown.

David Otunga and Daniel Bryan were present at ringside during the match. Truth delivered some great offense, but Miz fought back to connect with some game changer maneuvers. The end of the match was mired in controversy as Daniel Bryan knocked off Miz's feet during a blatant pin attempt. R-Truth captialized on the distraction with the Lie Detector, gaining momentum for both WrestleMania and NXT.

Chuck Fact: Flying Chucks work on The Big Show - Fail!

On NXT, Daniel Bryan criticised Miz's career of being carried to the top by his tag team partners. Interestingly enough, this next match showcased those tag partners: The Big Show against John Morrison.

The Dynamic Duo of John Morrison and R-Truth have built some steady momentum, with a contendership win last week, beating down ShoMiz this week, and earlier in the program Truth picked up a win over Miz. But the biggest challenge is that of the World's Largest Athlete, The Big Show.

John Morrison provided every possible offense that he had, but Big Show chopped him down to size. The Big Show almost ended the match when he secured the sleeper. But Morrison was able to reach the ropes, thus breaking the hold. Morrison returned back with a flurry of kicks to the head. The end of the match came in the form of a mid-air collision when Morrison's flying Chuck Kick was stopped by a devastating knock out punch.

Despite all the loses that The Miz has incurred this past week, he can take solace in knowing that The Big Show is the other half of the Unified Tag Team Champions.

McIntyre Heading to WrestleMania, Undefeated?

Just as predicted, Vince McMahon erased McIntyre's second loss and placed him in another Money in the Bank qualifier. One would assume that after Evan Bourne won this past Monday, bringing the total to 8 contestants, that McIntyre would be out of WrestleMania? But when you have McMahon on your side, anything is possible, just ask Batista.

Teddy Long modified Drew's third MitB Qualifier as a Winner Takes All match, in which the Intercontinental Title would also be at stake. If Drew were to lose this match, he would not only miss out on WrestleMania, but he would no long her the I-C Champion. After defeating a local wrestler, Drew McIntyre retained his title and became the 9th participant in the Money in the Bank Ladder Match. My prediction is that the MitB match will be evened out to 10 contestants, which will include Kofi Kingston as the most qualified qualifier.

SmackDown Results: 2/26/10 - Spear, spear, on SmackDown

Spear, spear, spear on Jericho

The RAW following the hellacious Elimination Chamber, Chris Jericho celebrated his World Heavyweight Title win only to be speared again by Edge, who announced Chris as his WrestleMania opponent. Enraged, Jericho vowed that he would never be speared again.

Edge then listed Chris Jericho's accomplishments, ranging from becoming the first-ever Undisputed World Champion, defeating Shawn Michaels in his own match, to defeating Undertaker two-times; but he ended each accomplishment with the word, "spear." Edge is sending Jericho the message that no matter what he does, in the end, he will get speared. Edge then informed Chris that come 'Mania, he would be speared again, resulting in Edge's 10th World Title reign.

Chris Jericho then attempted a Code Breaker, but Edge evaded and struck with another spear. Does Edge have Jericho's number; or will he join the fate of the last two Royal Rumble winners?

Dolph Ziggler's perfect restart

A few weeks ago, John Morrison won a Triple-Threat qualifying match to participate in the Elimination Chamber. After failing to capture the World Title, could Morrison win another Triple-Threat to participate in this year's Money in the Bank Ladder match? R-Truth, who also participated in the Elimination Chamber, was inserted in this triple-threat qualifier for MitB. The final competitor was Dolph Ziggler, who has incurred more loses in his quest to become the Intercontinental Champion, counted on the outcome of this match to propel his career.

At the very start of the match, Ziggler's strategy was obvious, have Morrison and Truth battle it out as he picks his spots. Morrison and Truth, knowing this full well, rolled to the outside and tried getting Ziggler in the ring. But the tension shifted after Truth pulled Morrison out of the ring, in order to take on Ziggler by himself. Unable to seal the pinfall, Truth ended up fighting Morrison, a match that the fans were deprived of two weeks ago due to Morrison's tweaked ankle.

Ziggler played to his strengths, evading attacks and avoiding confrontation. With a Lie Detector corkscrew meant for Ziggler, accidentally struck Morrison, thus turning the attention between Morrison and Truth yet again. Morrison, after a pele kick and Starship Pain, covered R-Truth for the pinfall. But Dolph Ziggler pulled Morrison out of the ring at the last second, and covered Truth for the emphatic win. Dolph Ziggler has finally taken the first-step towards reviving his career.

Dolph Ziggler will have his WrestleMania moment as he joins Christian and 6 other competitors in the Money in the Bank, Ladder Match.

Vickie screwed Mickie; New Women's Champion

Luck is back on Michelle McCool's side as she once again captured the Women's Championship, making her a four-time female champion. However, the incidents factoring around her title win is controversal at best.

A few weeks back, Mickie James accidently tossed a plate of cottage cheese at SmackDown's special consultant, Vickie Guerrero. As if the release of Maria from the company wasn't bad enough, the added rival of Vickie, along with LayCool and Beth Phoenix, truly has Mickie outnumbered. Vickie first decided to set Mickie in a handicap match against LayCool following the cottage cheese incident, and then announced that Mickie would defend her title against Michelle McCool, and named herself as the guest referee.

At the Royal Rumble, Mickie James scored some much needed payback, after defeating McCool for the title in one switft DDT. It may have been satisfying for her, but not for the fans that wanted to see a hard fought women's match. This rematch more than made up for the squash, however, it ended with Vickie slapping Mickie in the face, a fast 3-count, and awarding the Women's title to Michelle McCool. In what could be considered a modern-day screw job in women's wrestling, left Mickie James, the only remaining babyface on the SmackDown brand, defeated in the ring. With high hopes of Mickie James defending against Beth Phoenix at WrestleMania may remain a dream. And any chances of Beth Phoenix contending for the title may be hard pressed as McCool now has Vickie Guerrero on her side.

Drew's first loss; Kane qualifies for Money in the Bank

Drew McIntyre had never been defeated, not by R-Truth, John Morrison, not even Kane. The brash Intercontinental Champion, coming off from a major title defense at Sunday's Elimination Chamber pay-per-view, looked to fulfill McMahon's prophesy of being a future World Champion.

All Drew had to do was win one more match to be automatically inserted into the Money in the Bank Ladder match at WrestleMania. And if he won that match, he would then have the opportunity to cash in on a World Title shot at any time, up to one-year. This qualifying match was an opportunity for McIntyre to one-up Rowdy Piper (WWE's famous Scotsman), who's highest achievement was winning the Intercontinental Championship.

At the pay-per-view, Kane lost to McIntyre after being thumbed in the eye and struck with the Future Shock DDT; this time around, Kane was fully aware of McIntyre's capability. After failing to lock in Future Shock, Drew McIntyre shocked the fans, and the announcers, when he connected with a reverse bulldog, similar to Dolph Ziggler's Zig-zag finisher. Yet, Kane managed to kick out, evade a second Future Shock, and connect with a Big Boot for the win.

Similar to Christian, Kane was in the first and last Money in the Bank Ladder match. And just like Christian, Kane has qualified for this year's Money in the Bank Ladder match. At WrestleMania 25, Kane was finger tips away from becoming Mr. Money in the Bank, will this year be different?

Drew McIntyre, incurring his first-ever loss, was distraught. He behaved as if he lost the Intercontinental Title, because he no longer has the edge which made him above everyone else. Despite the loss, Drew McIntyre needs to stop obsessing, and focus on finding an opponent to defend the Intercontinental Title at WrestleMania.

Shelton is Gold for WrestleMania; C.M. Punk vs. Mysterio at 'Mania?

Aside from being synonymous with Straightedge, C.M. Punk is the only 2-time winner of the Money in the Bank Ladder match, back-to-back. And both times, C.M. Punk successfully cashed them in against Edge and Jeff Hardy to capture his first two World Heavyweight Titles. So, a qualifying match to enter this year's MitB would just be a formality, right?

"The Gold Standard" Shelton Benjamin has been in every Money in the Bank, except for one. Shelton may have never won any ladder matches, but he is a gifted athlete that always puts on a performance in such stipulations. His latest conquest was against then-ECW Champion Christian at the TLC pay-per-view. He failed to best Christian, but the two put on possibly the best match of the night, only to be matched by D-X and JeriShow in the TLC main-event. What happens when the two Money in the Bank favorites are set to face each other in a qualifying match?

The match looked in C.M. Punk's favor as he managed to hoist Shelton for the GTS, but was distracted by Rey Mysterio attacking Luke Gallows. C.M. Punk's distraction allowed Shelton to connect with Pay-Dirt to win a spot in the Money in the Bank Ladder Match at WrestleMania XXVI. As for C.M. Punk, he may not be going to WrestleMania via a ladder, but we may see a grudge/lucha apuesta match against Rey Mysterio.

Edge's Awesome spear; The Miz ready to main-event

The Miz arrived on SmackDown because he doesn't have a match for WrestleMania. He demanded that Teddy Long find a tag team to defend the Unified Tag Team Titles against, but instead, Teddy scheduled Miz into the main-event against Edge.

In the best match of the week, even topping the Jericho-Bryan match on NXT, glimpsed the realization that The Miz is main-event material. Just last year, The Miz was begging for a pay-per-view match, and now he's scoring multiple ppv victories, and main-evented this week's SmackDown against a 9-time World Champion and the winner of the 2010 Royal Rumble, Edge.

Edge is known for bringing the best out of every superstar he faces, whether it be John Cena, Matt Hardy, Jeff Hardy, C.M. Punk, or John Morrison, Edge creates quality matches. Just last week, Edge lured Batista out of his no-compete attitude, and got him to fight in a match against him, no other superstar has that level of ring presence that The Rated-R Superstar has. Edge is still a heel, when many felt he would turn babyface, but he still remains a fan favorite because of his willingness to face any opponent head on.

Throughout the match with The Miz, Edge dictated the pace as Miz tried keeping up. NXT Rookie, Daniel Bryan viewed the match from backstage, in order to learn a thing or two from his mentor. The crowd grew considerable reactions from both Miz and Edge, but with an Impaler DDT followed by a spear, Edge would walk away with a victory over the United States/Unified Tag Team Champion.

Elimination Chamber: World Heavyweight Champion Struck with HeartBreak

Chris Jericho's sixth chamber = sixth World Title; John Morrison's performance praised

Rey Mysterio, in his fourth World title attempt since returning from his suspension, hyped the Scottrade Center for the final Elimination Chamber match of the night. He willingly entered the first pod with hopes of walking out as the World Champion. Then came John Morrison, strutting down to the ring, entered the chamber and gazed at the magnificent structure, as if he were starring up at the Sistine Chapel. Chris Jericho's confidence on becoming the next World Champion was axiomatic; he followed suit by filling in the next pod. And finally, The Undertaker had the most unforgettable entrance of the night because instead of gliding down the ramp as he is most known for, he stormed into the chamber, filling the final pod. Was Undertaker anxious to start the match, or was there a more pressing matter?

C.M. Punk, accompanied by the Straightedge Society, methodically called out each entrant locked securely behind the plate glass capsules, advocating that these pods were symbolic of the imprisonment of their addictions. Then R-Truth, the final entrant, was skipping and jumping without neglecting a beat as he made his way towards the chamber. This being R-Truth's first shot at the World Title, one would assume that he would take things more seriously? In a way he did, when he started the match he continually Irish whipped Punk against the steel chained barrier of the chamber, followed by a Senton Bomb from off the top turnbuckle. However, R-Truth was unable to state his claim to fame as he was eliminated by C.M. Punk with a GTS.

C.M. Punk's self-righteous arrogance forced him back onto the mick and asked that everyone at home pledge to live a straightedge life; which was until Rey Mysterio, who has been on the end of many Straightedge Society attacks, exacted retribution by eliminating him at the 10 minute mark. Unlike the RAW Chamber match, where all 6 entrants were fighting before witnessing an elimination, the SmackDown competitors were eliminating threats one-at-a-time.

Rey Mysterio only had seconds to pull himself together before facing Chris Jericho. Many recall that these two had a standing rivalry during their days in WCW, but most recently, during the summer, these two, now primed main-eventers, grudged over the Intercontinental title and Mysterio' mask. Mysterio looked to get the upper hand by evading Jericho's lionsault, and setting up for the 619. However, Jericho rolled onto the steel grate, where no pinfalls can occur, and Mysterio launched himself past Jericho and unto the chamber wall. Mysterio resembled a fly on the wall, until Jericho slammed him back first unto the steel grate. Jericho continued to punish Mysterio with a Walls of Jericho in the center of the canvas.

Entering just seconds before Mysterio could tap out, John Morrison attacked both Jericho and Mysterio. Truly a match setting where it is every man for himself, Morrison and Mysterio would go back and forth. Morrison connected with a pele kick during a mid-air collision with Mysterio; and Mysterio returned the favor by pushing Morrison back-first into the pod. And much like John Morrison's Rockstar DVD ends with a win over Mysterio, JoMo evades a Hurricanrana and connects with Starship Pain for the elimination.

Lastly, The Undertaker emerged from the pod and dominated the remaining opponents. Battle tested, and the freshest man in the chamber, Taker viciously attacked Jericho, who tried hiding in one of the pods, with a series of punches and kicks. Undertaker, comfortable with his surroundings, reverted his attention to John Morrison, who mustered a flying chuck to the skull. Morrison should have gone for the cover but instead went for Starship Pain, which was countered with a double knee lift by the Undertaker.

Chris Jericho and John Morrison, having feuded before, found a common enemy with The Undertaker, and teamed up to evade a double chokeslam, and connect with a suplex. Chris Jericho, later on, would use the distraction from Morrison to drive Undertaker into the pod; yet, Morrison executed a flying chuck to Jericho - truces can only go so far.

John Morrison is no doubt a future World Champion, but emphasis on future, because after being knocked out with a clothesline over the steel grate, UT dragged Morrison into the ring to pin him for the 3-count. Morrison's performance should be praised as he fended off attacks from both Jericho and the Undertaker, not to mention having eliminated Rey Mysterio.

The final encounter between Jericho and Taker was it's own main event, as these two guys gave a stellar performance after a grueling match thus far. Pound for pound, Jericho willed out of a Last Ride and Hell's Gate, while Undertaker kicked out of a Code Breaker and the Walls of Jericho. Each implementing a finisher and a submission move a piece, neither could find the strength to capitalize. My heart was dead set on Jericho escaping the chamber with the strap in order for Edge and Jericho to have the epic encounter that only WrestleMania could contain. Yet, when all hope was lost, from out of the steel grate rose "The HeartBreak Kid" Shawn Michaels delivering some Sweet Chin Music to The Undertaker. Similar to the astonished look on Edge's face when Matt Hardy struck Jeff with a steel chair, Jericho pensively waited for the go ahead to go for the cover. In Jericho's sixth Elimination Chamber, he walks away with his sixth World Title.

A WWE Championship match between John Cena and Batista sounds horrible, so at least give the WWE Universe a match worth watching: World Heavyweight Champion, Chris Jericho versus Edge at WrestleMania.

WWE Superstars Results: 2/18/10 - Bourne to Win

Evan Bourne: The Silent Highlight Reel

The veterans Chavo Guerrero and Carlito teamed up against the rookies Evan Bourne and Primo.

Throughout the match, the animosity between the two brothers were eminent, with each trying to get the upper hand on the other. Primo attempted to connect with a missal drop kick from off the top rope but was knocked down by Carlito without the referee's knowledge. Primo would certainly then inflict some much needed punishment with an array of kicks and Carlito's finisher The Backstabber.

Chavo Guerrero, who executed an impressive match, has been underutilized in the WWE for years. In this match, Chavo grounded Evan Bourne with a double wrist-clutch, followed by repeated knee stomps to the chest. As far as I can recall, I have never seen Chavo perform this move. But one person who has utilized this maneuver throughout his career is "The American Dragon" Bryan Danielson, or as he will be referred to by his NXT name, Daniel Bryan. Chavo has wrestled against Daniel in dark matches on RAW, so perhaps he has learned a thing or two from the young rookie. Chavo, especially with the Gory Bomb, has never looked more alive in the WWE ring.

There are very few instances when Michael Cole says something worthwhile, but his nickname for Evan Bourne may be on those lists of rarities; "The Highlight Reel" Evan Bourne. I know what you are possibly thinking, wasn't Jeff Hardy considered that, especially when appearing on every highlight reel involving ladders?

Evan Bourne needs a new gimmick if he wishes to survive the WWE, and if he were to take the initiative to wow the audience members, or be charismatic enough to call out his maneuvers, then he would have an interesting gimmick. Jeff Hardy was so successful with the fans because he had no problem accepting high risk-no reward type matches, and would proclaim to the WWE Universe of his dare-devil goals. Evan Bourne would really benefit by improving on his mic skills and hyping up the crowds. Because as of right now, Evan Bourne is a silent highlight reel, he needs to add some high-octane explosions to get the crowd going. And after pinning Chavo Guerrero with a Shooting Star Press, his future could sky rocket, if he just heeds my advice.

Gail Kim and Katie Lea: Solid Match-up

Usually when the RAW Divas hit the ring, I hit the fast forward button; but this match up between Gail Kim and Katie Lea proved of some interest to me.

Gail Kim, obviously a hell of a competitor, has been a cry for concern to the wrestling fans who watched Gail establish herself as a corner stone of the TNA Knockout division. During her first stint in the WWE, Gail Kim feuded with the likes of Trish Stratus, Lita, Jazz, Ivory, and Molly Holly, during a time when women's wrestling meant something. TNA was another feather in her cap, as she elevated even higher to make women's wrestling more enjoyable to watch than TNA's X-Division. But her recent move to the WWE in March of 2009 has not payed off, as she has been forced to compete in tag team matches and is always overlooked in a title match. Even the instant of Mickie James-Gail Kim title match turned into a flop, as Gail botched a maneuver, and Mickie further made matters worse by etching her dislike on her long face.

More recently, Gail Kim, the finalist competing for the vacant Divas' Title this Sunday, has been building momentum these past couple of weeks by defeating WWE's underutilized female wrestlers in Jillian Hall and Katie Lea.

Her match with Katie Lea proved to be a concrete physical match in which these two women avoided the pretty handstands or awkward grapple holds. Katie Lea showing the WWE Universe that she is more than a valet to her "brother" Paul, threw Gail shoulder first into the ring post. She then went to work by Irish-whipping Gail Kim shoulder-first into the turnbuckle, and following up with a side slam backbreaker. Katie Lea was able to avoid Gail's first finisher, but "Ate Defeat" with a second inverted stomp facebreaker.

Maryse, the other finalist for the vacant Divas' Title, hasn't wrestled in quite some time. But she has demonstrated to have respect for her opponent, and wishes to deliver an honest match at this Sunday's Elimination Chamber pay-per-view. The question is, will Maryse become a 2-time Divas' title holder, or will Gail Kim become the third woman to capture both WWE's women's titles?

Rey Mysterio: Illogical Victory

Rey Mysterio has always been the underdog in the WWE, but what if his credibility as a wrestler is becoming a little too hard to conceive? No doubt, Rey Mysterio reached the pinnacle of his Cinderella story at WrestleMania 22, when he captured the World Heavyweight Title in a Triple Threat Match, by pinning a young Randy Orton. Obviously now, Randy Orton has evolved into a super heel and a mulit-time World Champion, so Mysterio pinning Orton would no longer be considered normal, it'd be an upset.

Lately, Mysterio has forfeited his Intercontinental rematch clause, and has set his sights on the World's Title. He defeated Batista in a Cage Match for the right to challenge Undertaker at the Royal Rumble, and almost defeated the Deadman. Mysterio's credibility in those matches were solid, because Mysterio didn't have to pin Batista, only escape a cage; and as for Taker, Mysterio provided consistent offense and attacked the weak spots but he still lost.

Mysterio starts to lose credibility when he supposedly can overpower a 300-pound-plus giant in Mike Knox. Mike Knox of course has an impressive record of the most losses in the WWE, along with the longest beard, but he should not have lost to Mysterio. I understand that Mysterio has the star power, but if you get struck with a 300-pound cross body, logically you should not be able to kick out.

Last week on SmackDown, Mysterio was able to weasel a victory out of C.M. Punk by countering the GTS, but he received ample punishment from the Straightedge Society. That is the true story behind the mask, no one feels that he should have won the World Title four years ago, nor do they feel that he has a shot at defeating The Undertaker. The point of a match against Mike Knox is to showcase Mysterio's resiliency to punishment, and what he offers to the Elimination Chamber. This Sunday, Rey Mysterio doesn't necessarily have to pin Taker to capture the World Title, he just has to eliminate the last man - with the hope that the last man is not The Undertaker.

SmackDown Results: 2/12/10

Elimination Fury

C.M. Punk versus Rey Mysterio

Rumors are going around that C.M. Punk will be taking on Mysterio in a hair versus mask match at WrestleMania. It's no secret that Mysterio dropped the I-C Title because of his suspension, so a Jeff Hardy-like storyline can play itself out into a WrestleMania match.

This was the best match of the night, as Mysterio and C.M. Punk went at it with high-risk versus Muy Thai offense. Both of these men will be competing inside the Elimination Chamber, and both are former World Champions. C.M. Punk, a three-time champion, is looking to have a fourth-reign and continue to rule the WWE as it's savior. And inside the Chamber, Rey Mysterio will be an underdog more than ever. His high flying offense may be limited, as he really will have no where to go, as each turnbuckle will rest in front of a pod with a cased opponent.

Mysterio attempted the 619 on several points in the match, but C.M. Punk had managed to escape each one. Yet, C.M. Punk set up for the GTS was countered by Mysterio into a pinning combination.

Mysterio certainly may appear to have all the momentum, but after a beat down from the Straightedge Society, C.M. Punk may have the greater momentum.

John Morrison versus R-Truth

John Morrison and R-Truth have teamed up in the ring before, and Truth has even appeared on Morrison's WWE.com web show "The Palace of Wisdom" as "Delicious" Pretty Ricky. So these two are definitely friends in and out of the ring, but on February 21st, these two will have to put their friendship aside to contend for the World Heavyweight Title inside the Elimination Chamber.

Yet, this match was no more than two minutes old when Morrison sprained his ankle and was unable to compete. Truth could have made matters worse and started attacking the ankle, to further injure Morrison, but instead he saw to it that he was alright. The announcers focused on R-Truth's sportsmanship rather than Morrison's potential injury.

Is John Morrison going to make it to the Elimination Chamber in time? Or will his spot be reserved for Shawn Michaels?

I personally prefer that Morrison does not participate inside a career shortening stipulation, especially with the unlikelihood that creative will place the title on Morrison. The two men who are primed to capture the title are Chris Jericho, and, if he takes Morrison's spot, Shawn Michaels.

Chris Jericho versus The Undertaker [No Disqualification Match]

It has been a dream match of mine to see Chris Jericho take on The Undertaker at WrestleMania, but that does not look like the path WWE is going with. Currently, Taker's potential opponents are Shawn Michaels or Edge. At one point, people assumed that John Cena would challenge Taker, as it was teased when RAW went to MSG. Regardless of who faces Taker at 'Mania, Chris Jericho has had his fair shots at the Demon of Death Valley.

Chris Jericho believes to be an entity within the WWE, but Taker has long established himself as the Phenom of the industry. Taker did a great job as always dominating the match. At times, he was dragging Jericho around like a rag doll. This was especially emanate when Taker tossed Jericho in Edge's direction, who was doing commentary.

Edge managed to step out of the way, but suffered a boot to the face by the Undertaker. When Taker got back into the ring, he struck with The Last Ride, and looked to win the match, but Edge speared him. Jericho then struck with the Code Breaker to win the match. Taker remained strong as he dominated Jericho for most of the match, but the match was fought under no disqualification so Edge's interference was legal.

After tonight, all, except Morrison and R-Truth, have built momentum going into the Elimination Chamber. You would think that the two non-World titlist would try to build as much momentum as possible.

Women's Feud Not Over

After an altercation backstage, Vickie Guerrero forced Women's Champion, Mickie James, into a handicap match against Lay-Cool. The match was initially a one-on-one against Layla, but Vickie, covered in cottage cheese, saw it fit to make Mickie suffer.

I actually thought that Vickie would strip Mickie of the title, but luckily it did not go in that direction. Mickie sadly lost the match, as she was struck with McCool's Faith Breaker. I am still hoping for a Mickie James-Beth Phoenix build up for WrestleMania, but McCool is still entitled to her rematch.

New Threat to Intercontinental Title

Last week, Drew McIntyre almost picked up the victory in the Triple-Threat Qualifying match, by striking Kane with the Future Shock. This of course has rolled over to this week as Kane wants retribution and a shot at McIntyre's I-C Title.

McIntyre feels that he has nothing to prove to Kane, but the Big Red Monster seems to differ. The two ended up having a match which led to a double count-out outside of the ring. And according to WWE.com, an Intercontinental Title Match has been added: Drew McIntyre will defend against Kane.

By the way, what was with McIntyre's entrance theme? Apparently WWE were testing out a new theme, but it's too slow to match his intensity.

Maria Involved with a WWE Superstar, Again

Maria has "managed" the likes of Santino Marella and Dolph Ziggler, of course never adding or advancing in their careers. Maria has always been considered a pretty face, and adds appeal to the superstar she manages. She has now set her sights on a career-plummeting Matt Hardy. There are no signs that they are dating on-screen, but Matt Hardy called her his "Special Valentine" and friend.

The Team of Matt Hardy and Khali took on The Hart Dynasty again, this time, Maria was ringside. Natalya attempted to interfere with the match, but Maria swopped in and started attacking her. The lack of interference allowed Matt Hardy to strike a victory with a roll up on Tyson Kidd.

Hardy and Khali have been recently picking up victories over The Hart Dynasty, but things seem a bit brighter now that Maria Kanellis is on board. Let's just hope Khali or Hardy don't turn heel over Khali putting his Punjabi Playboy moves on the 2008 Playboy Cover Girl.

SmackDown Results: 2/5/10

Opportunity by Elimination

Chris Jericho's dream of winning the Rumble and headlining WrestleMania was taken away by a returning Edge. The words, "I Have NOTHINHG!" echoed throughout the FedExForum arena. There is no one better in the WWE, I feel, that can deliver on a promo with such life, passion, and hatred. You may beg to differ. You may have a list of people that can who are still with the company. I ask you, when was the last time they cut such a promo?

Chris Jericho barged into Teddy Long's office to find the 2010 Royal Rumble Winner, Edge. He attributes his return to Jericho, "You gave me the strength to come back... You created a monster." The best possible WrestleMania match is to have Chris Jericho face off against Edge. They have enough to feud over. During Jericho's Slammy victory speech seven weeks ago, he made light of Edge's injury, as if it were a punch line.

Edge recovered from a torn Achilles tendon; doctors were unsure whether he'd ever be able to compete again. Edge vowed, after missing two WresleManias, that he wouldn't miss a third. Edge's first night back on SmackDown meant only one thing, the return of the Cutting Edge, with special guest, the World's Champion The Undertaker. Except it wasn't Taker who showed, but Jericho and eventually the Straight-Edge Society.

C.M. Punk and Chris Jericho may have overbearing domineering views on the outcome of the Elimination Chamber, but they still have to go through the Demon of Death Valley to achieve that boast.

Whoever does come out the Elimination Chamber may have to face The Ultimate Opportunist come WrestleMania.

Potential Contenders

Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match: Entry No.1
Triple-Threat: Kane vs. Drew McIntyre vs. John Morrison

Who to pick in a match where you have the big red monster, the chosen Scotsman, and the Guru of Greatness? Well in order to determine that let us break it down.

Kane: The younger brother of The Undertaker, a multi-time World Champion, the only man to ever face the Undertaker twice at WrestleMania, are certainly some impressive accolades for Kane to find himself facing off with his brother once again. But is round 3 really something that the fans want?

The history between these two brothers call out for another encounter, just not at WrestleMania. The last time these two fought at WrestleMania was 2004, The Undertaker had been buried by Kane, and was looking for payback. The highly anticipated rematch turned out to be more spectacle than anything worth remembering. So despite the history, I wouldn't recommend Taker-Kane III at 'Mania XXVI.

Drew McIntyre: A man who has been undefeated in singles competition, has never been pinned, won the I-C Title on his first attempt, and successfully defended it on numerous occasions against the former champion. In addition, it took not one, but both members of D-X to eliminate him from the Royal Rumble.

Drew McIntyre is truly rising as a serious threat for anyone that stands in his way, but is a World Title opportunity all that smart?

WWE placed the WWE Title on Sheamus, and the fans are not fully behind the push. Sure it shows WWE's willingness to push younger wrestlers, but, most importantly, wrestlers need to be built up properly. For a while, Randy Orton was unmatched with his intensity in the ring; but, with rise of such young stars in Sheamus and McIntyre, there is a change occurring in the WWE.

McIntyre is on the right path, what he needs right now is not a World Title Shot, but another competitor for the I-C Title.

John Morrison: A tag team strategist, multi-time tag team champion, three-time I-C Champion, and truly a man beyond good and evil as he can handle the role of heel and fan favorite with ease.

Ever since Jeff Hardy's departure from the company, SmackDown has been in need of a fan favorite to lead as the face of the brand. However, WWE feels that Rey Mysterio is the man for the job, but I beg to differ.

Mysterio may be just as great with the fans as a John Cena, but he is prone to injury. And to give him a World Title, and suffer an injury would not bod well for the company.

As for John Morrison, he is truly an amazing specimen of talent, charisma, and physical fitness. He has proven to be championship material: with successful runs as WWE and World Tag Team Champions, along with a memorable I-C Title run.

The Triple Threat went great. Morrison's pinfall victory over Kane, not only asserts his dominance but it protects McIntyre from incurring a pinfall loss.

Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match: Entry No.2
R-Truth vs. Mike Knox

R-Truth has been steadily rising with some big wins over Jericho, escalating even further this past Sunday. At the Royal Rumble, R-Truth eliminated both the Big Show and Mark Henry, the two biggest threats in the match.

I'm still not on board with this push, but after taking out Mike Knox to earn an entry spot in the Elimination Chamber, I cannot deny R-Truth.

Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match: Entry No.3
Batista vs. C.M. Punk

C.M. Punk has lately come off as an anti-Christ figure. Not saying that Punk is a demon, but he twists the words of Jesus to maintain his ego. He preached to his society, "There is no you, without me." Shouldn't that saying go the other way around, methinks?

This was in regards to his qualifying match with Batista, mostly asking for some sort of interference against The Animal.

However, the match ended on a count-out because Batista simply counted himself out. This could have something to do with what took place after RAW went off the air. John Cena finally did come to Bret's aid - even though who needed it then? - and Batista walked away. He then came charging back and pummeled John Cena, and Batista PowerBombing him through steel steps.

Could Mr. McMahon have enlisted Batista as the muscles? Is Batista starting a feud with John Cena? Possibly act as surrogates for Mr. McMahon and Bret Hart? Hopefully not the latter, but the first part sounds ridiculously entertaining. It'd be nice to see the two biggest, and most overrated superstars duke it out at WrestleMania XXVI.

Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match: Entry No.4
Chris Jericho vs. Matt Hardy

Chris Jericho, who said that he qualifies for nothing, found himself in an easy fight against Matt Hardy. Interestingly enough that Jericho and Matt where both in the cab with Gregory Helms before he got arrested, and they now found each other contending for an entry spot.

Matt Hardy attempted a Twist of Fate, but Jericho evaded with assist from the ropes. Jericho struck with the Codebreaker to win.

Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match: Entry No.5
Rey Mysterio vs. Dolph Ziggler

A revival match from last summer's Intercontinental Title feud, Dolph and Rey this time fought for a richer prize, an entry into the Elimination Chamber.

Dolph Ziggler had some close calls, and surely does have signs of perfection. But is the heart of the underdog greater than perfectly executed moves?

Dolp Ziggler, once vying for the I-C Title, is now shuffled in the mid card scene. Especially after losing to Morrison in a series of title matches, Ziggler is going through a dry spell. And for a gimmick that should be outspoken, he's awfully quiet.

Yet, it should say something for WWE management to place Ziggler in a contenders qualifier match for the World's Title. But in the end, he was just a stepping stone for Mysterio to once again be tossed into the title picture.

Elimination Chamber Match Participants for World Heavyweight Title

Defending Champion: The Undertaker
Participants: John Morrison, R-Truth, C.M. Punk, Chris Jericho, and Rey Mysterio

Glama-Feat for WrestleMania?

Perky little Mickie James is complacent with being the new Women's Champion for a fifth time. With months of intense humiliation by the hands of Lay-Cool, the worst is yet to come in the form of The Glamazon.

Entering the Royal Rumble at No. 6, Beth Phoenix eliminated the Great Khali and delivered a vicious clothesline to C.M. Punk before being eliminated. Despite the short run, Glamazon was fighting with grown men, while Mickie was busy with little girls.

But before we can see Beth contend for the Women's Title, Michelle McCool still has her mandatory rematch clause. Oh, and a tag team match.

The women's match was Beth Phoenix and Mickie James against Lay-Cool. Mickie-Beth worked well together for a while, with clean tags an no one-up manships, However, Beth struck Mickie square in the face to let a British-chippy try to score the pinfall. Even after being punched in the face, Mickie still managed to roll up Layla for the win.

Beth Phoenix, despite at times choosing to team with McCool, has no allegiance to Team Lay-Cool.

Yet, with Mickie James and Beth Phoenix having an underlining feud since the start of their trade to SmackDown, I wouldn't be surprised if we witness Beth Phoenix contend for the title at WrestleMania. It would be a women's match worth seeing, and definitely a change of pace from the last three playboy/Ms. WrestleMania failures.

SmackDown Results: 1/29/10

D-Generation-X Turning SmackDown Upside Down

D-X arrived on SmackDown to defend the Unified Tag Team Titles against the #1 contenders' C.M. Punk and Luke Gallows; however, they ran into some controversy.

Shawn Michaels is dead set on winning the Royal Rumble for another shot at ending the Undertaker's Streak, but what happens if Rey Mysterio defeats Taker this Sunday? This is a possibility that both Taker and Michaels have dismissed, which is why Rey Mysterio called Michaels out. Rey has always respected Shawn, but he feels that he doesn't respect him. Michaels flat out told Rey that he doesn't see him defeating Taker for the title. Yet, Rey stated that he'll do something Michaels nor Triple-H have been able to do at WrestleMania, which is defeat The Undertaker.

C.M. Punk interrupted Rey's challenge to Michaels and reminded everyone that D-X is here to defend the straps against Luke Gallows and himself. And when they win, they will become the first-ever "Straight-Edge" Unified Tag Team Champions. Triple-H then entered an amateur comedy-hour segment with C.M. Punk and his merry crew. Such zingers as: "I'm relieved to know that you're Straight."... "Maybe take them clippers out of the bag, shave that squirrel off you got on your chin." Triple-H's jokes were gold in this segment, but that's because he's a cocky jerk.

Then Teddy R. Long came out and announced that D-X would not be defending the titles, but instead Shawn Michaels would be taking on Rey Mysterio in the main event, and C.M. Punk would take on Triple-H immediately.

C.M. Punk's Evolution

For three weeks, C.M. Punk has been turning people over to the straight-edge lifestyle, but Serena has been the only one to show face the following week. Will she eventually be integrated into the divas' division? That has yet to be decided, but that is probably the course of action that will take place after this cult dissipates.

The announcers have mentioned that Triple-H has been a part of two of the biggest factions in the WWE, and has mentored the likes of Randy Orton and Batista, who are now mega-stars; will The Straight-Edge Society be one day considered as one of the best factions in professional wrestling? The Society has Luke Gallows and Serena, which we witnessed the vital roles they play for C.M. Punk. Luke sucker punched Helmsley behind the ref's back, and Serena provides distractions and a shield for Punk to hide behind.

C.M. Punk has truly evolved into the main-event scene, something he was able to fill three years ago during his encounters with Kane and Batista. C.M. Punk was lucky enough to become the World Heavyweight Champion by cashing in his first Money in the Bank briefcase, but he was considered a paper champion because he didn't belong in the main-event, until now. His match with Triple-H, possibly one of the most decorated men in the WWE, was incredible. Most would assume that Triple-H would have owned the match, this may have been true a few years ago, but Punk has stepped up his game. C.M. Punk went toe-to-toe with the Cerebral Assassin, withstanding the pressure of the figure-four leg lock, and breaking away from the Pedigree. However, a conclusion to this match was too good to be witnessed on SmackDown, hence the disqualification that took place when Serena jumped the back of Triple-H during the second Pedigree attempt.

C.M. Punk has what it takes to defeat Triple-H, and this match is just the beginning to when they finally meet in their Unified Tag Team Match.

R-Truth Breaks Down the Walls

Chris Jericho and R-Truth have danced around with each other in several match-ups, but where is this going? R-Truth failed his United States Title quest when first returning to the WWE; he was the stepping stone for Drew McIntyre; and he failed to see through a feud with C.M. Punk. But unlike the past weeks teaming up with either Cryme Tyme or John Morrison, R-Truth's match with Chris Jericho would be one-on-one.

R-Truth dances around and breaks out a wrestling move once in a while, usually administering mid-air spinning kicks. Despite being unorthodox in his wrestling skill set, Ron "The Truth" Killings not only held his ground against Chris Jericho, but he countered the Walls of Jericho into an Oklahoma roll-up, then withstood the Code Breaker by holding onto the ropes and going for a bridge-pin for the win.

Chris Jericho is not only there for himself, but to create superstars in the process. Will R-Truth finally start moving up the ranks in the WWE?

No-DQ for I-C Title

John Morrison lost the Intercontinental Title to Drew McIntyre at the TLC pay-per-view, and lost his rematch on New Years' Day. Can John Morrison defeat the undefeated Drew McIntyre in a No Disqualification Match for the I-C Title?

John Morrison mentioned how, when lost the title, Drew McIntyre dropped the I-C title backstage to give a chest bump to Sheamus. Now, Morrison is all for celebrating, seeing as he is a rock star, but is that how you treat the Intercontinental Title? John Morrison is a three-time I-C champion, and it was not until he defeated Rey Mysterio that he understood the importance of being the I-C champion.

John Morrison attempted to end the streak of Drew McIntyre and reclaim his title on the same night, but a no DQ match was too unpredictable. Drew pulled out a kendo stick from under the ring and struck Morrison several times before discarding it and going for the cover inside the ring. But the kendo stick would come into play later on in the match by Morrison. After delivering a flying forearm over the barricade, Morrison used the Kendo stick to attack but was hit with a thumb to the eye. Drew then tired using the stick but was launched in the air and spine-first into the steel steps, with an arm drag by John Morrison.

Morrison's undoing came when he dragged McIntyre back into the ring and to execute Starship Pain. McIntyre used the time to recuperate enough to lift his knees at the last second; and then disgraced Morrison by connecting with the double underhook DDT over the Intercontinental Championship.

This was most likely Morrison's final shot at the I-C title, and it is time that Morrison refocuses and moves forward to the next rung in the WWE ladder.

Bad Taste for Mock Women's Title Match

Michelle McCool claimed that Mickie James was done with WWE after last week's farewell, and that she would not have an opponent for this Sunday. She also reassured everyone that she was a fighting champion and would take on anyone who felt that they could defeat her for the Women's Title.

Now, a few names came to mind on who could face McCool: Beth Phoenix, Natalya. But instead, Mick's theme sounded, but Layla showed up in a fat suit and pig snout, pretending to be Mickie James. This storyline has reached its expiration, and the mock title match was by far the most disgusting and degrading display of garbage that WWE has produced.

Michaels-Mysterio, The One?

Shawn Michaels and Rey Mysterio have reached the peak of their careers by winning the Royal Rumble. Shawn Michaels entered in at No. 1 and won the '95 Royal Rumble but lost that year's WrestleMania. Then, the following year, Michaels entered at No. 18 to win the Royal Rumble, and go on to realize his dream by defeating Bret Hart in an Iron Man Match at WrestleMania for the coveted WWE Title. In 2006, Rey Mysterio entered in at No. 2 to win both the Royal Rumble and go on to capture the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania 22. Both have their history in the Royal Rumble, and both have come out as champions because of it.

The match showcased possibly the two most passioned competitors in the WWE today. The last time we saw these two fight was in 2005, in honor of the late Eddie Guerrero. Shawn Michaels is no stranger to the luchadore style, as he was trained by Jose Lothario, who taught him the style. Michaels was the first white kid to ever do a moonsault, something that was only reserved for luchadores in his time.

When Michaels connected with the elbow drop, and the Indian Death Lock, Michaels showed Mysterio why he will go on to win the Royal Rumble. But Mysterio attempted to win with the 619, but was superkicked in mid-air by Shawn Michaels.

And just like Punk and Triple-H, this match was too good to be decided on SmackDown, as Batista attacked both Michaels and Mysterio. Triple-H came to Michaels rescue, as Michaels did for Triple-H earlier. Triple-H clashed with Batista and tossed him over the top rope. Batista may feel that he can overpower and hurt anyone who stands in his way, but what happens when the guy you are left with is the man who mentored you in Evolution.

Then the bells tolled, and The Undertaker appeared in the ring to deliver a double chokeslam to Michaels and Mysterio. The Undertaker fears no opponent, because they must go through hell before trying to get to heaven.

SmackDown Results: 1/22/10

Batista's Royal Rumble Promise

The opening bout of the night was "The Animal" Dave Batista versus Finlay. You know... we shouldn't even call Batista Dave anymore, because that implies a sign of kindness, which is clearly not the case. Finlay, on the other hand, is tapping into the Celtic Warrior deep inside by sporting the red hair, instead of the Eminem blonde fade. The two had a gruesome back and forth tussle as the action was forced out of the ring. The referee called for the bell after both competitors failed to return to the ring. However, that didn't stop Batista from tossing Finlay into the announce table, the turnbuckle, and finishing him off in the ring to prove a point.

The point was Batista staking his claim that he will win the Royal Rumble, and challenge the Undertaker at WrestleMania. The Undertaker seems to have a price on his head as Shawn Michaels also looks to challenge him by winning the Royal Rumble.

One Nation, Under Punk

During the past two weeks, C.M. Punk secured two followers, and has now been self-depicted as a savior. This week, a young woman jumped over the barricade, and made her way to touch Punk's shirt; which is very biblical, seeing as a woman once touched Jesus' cloak in order to be healed. The harbinger of sobriety called forth Serena to heal her sins. C.M. Punk is no longer just mocking the pledge of allegiance.... he's taking on a Christ-like persona; except, Christ did not look for praise. Serena took the pledge by having C.M. Punk shave her hair. In this over-drawn segment, C.M. Punk managed to hold the audience's attention without doing a single wrestling move. I consider that an accomplishment, proving that losing the World Heavyweight Title has not slowed down his momentum one bit.

Amazing Showmanship

Initially a handicap match pitting John Morrison against Chris Jericho and Drew McIntyre, Teddy Long evened the match by teaming JoMo with R-Truth. Despite Long turning it into a tag team match, Jericho and McIntyre kept Morrison in their corner, cutting him off from R-Truth.

When The Hart Dynasty placed Jericho in the Hart Attack weeks ago, it was evident that Chris Jericho was a vital part on the elevated star power on SmackDown. Chris Jericho is a phenomenal athlete and a sure fire Hall of Famer, but his caliber of excellence did not occur overnight, he started out as a nobody and strived to the main event scene. Now, he is giving back by helping the youngings, like Drew McIntrye, by showcasing their potential, most of the time through interrupting the announce team, or just by allowing them to shine in the ring.

One of John Morrison's greatest attributes is his endurance in the ring, as this match proved, as he was blocked off from R-Truth for a good eight minutes. Eventually, Truth did get the tag and won the match after Morrison struck Jericho with a pele pick from the outside. It may have been a deceitful way to win, but Morrison's performance alone garners the victory.

Women's Wrestling Not Dead

I would like to take this time to congratulate the women of SmackDown for proving that the WWE is not dead when it comes to Women's Wrestling.

The segment started off with Michelle McCool and Layla, who threw Mickie James a premature "Going Away" Party. Since the Divas' draft, which saw Mickie and Beth Phoenix to SmackDown, Michelle McCool has done everything to eliminate the new threats. Mickie James, being the only fighting babyface on SmackDown, has staked her claim on recapturing the Women's Title. McCool is afraid of the threat that Mickie poses to the Women's Title, so for women, what better way to asses the situation than by destroying their self-esteem? Which has spawned into Lay-Cool's "Piggy James" taunts, with the intent that Mickie will chose to leave SmackDown on her own.

The Slammy Award Winning Diva of the Year, Maria made an unexpected appearance. Recall 2004-2009, Maria had a bubbly dumb-red head personality, but when she entered that ring to confront Lay-Cool, I was impressed. She carried herself as a strong independent woman, which is really what WWE is trying to convey about women.

Mickie James arrived and expressed, in a passionate speech, that real women are short, tall, fat, skinny, curvy, and so forth... Mickie then brought the fight to Michelle, as Maria roughed up Layla. However, Beth Phoenix arrived and sided with Lay-Cool. Similar to Triple-H, Beth Phoenix is a tweener, for lack of a better term; meaning that she can move between heel or face, it doesn't matter, as long as she's #1. Currently, Mickie James is the only threat to Beth Phoenix, seeing as she herself lost the Women's Title to Mickie in 2008. While, in regards to Michelle McCool, Beth knows that she can defeat her at anytime.

Mickie James was held down to get hit in the face with a pig-shaped cake, and doused with red punch. If Mickie was not considering leaving the company, she may now. However, Mickie James will be contending for the Women's Title at The Royal Rumble.

Kane, The Eliminator

The following match up saw Cryme Tyme take on Charlie Haas and Mike Knox. For a moment, when the lights went red, I thought Kane would resume his feud with Mike Knox, but instead he tossed everyone from over the top rope. Kane does hold the record for most eliminations in a single Royal Rumble, so can he win big at his 12th Royal Rumble? If Kane were to win, it would mark the third time these two fought at WrestleMania.

Matt Hardy does it Alone

The third, and final, tag team match of the night was Matt Hardy and The Great Khali against The Hart Dynasty. Matt Hardy took on Tyson Kidd and David Hart Smith, practically, by himself because Tyson gave Natalya the idea to distract Khali, which she did beautifully. In Khali's defense, you can't hate the playa, hate the game... now if we can only get Runjin to translate.

The Harts attempted to execute the Hart Attack on Matt Hardy, but he shoved Smith - knocking Kidd off the ropes - and pinned Smith with a small package roll up. So much for Natalya having a bright future anytime soon.

Mysterio Digs his own Grave

Four years ago, Rey Mysterio won the Royal Rumble and went on to win the big one at WrestleMania.; and next Sunday, Mysterio looks to relieve that dream by defeating The Undertaker. Undertaker restates, "I will defeat you," bold words for a small man.

Out of nowhere, Batista attacked Mysterio with two spinebusters, and escaped through the crowd. Is Rey Mysterio digging his own grave, or will he be holding the shovel at the top of the mound?

SmackDown Results: 1/15/10

Chris Jericho, Baddest Man?

Jericho made his less than triumphant return to SmackDown after failing, for the third time, to get his spot on RAW. So what's next for the most profound wrestler in all of Sports Entertainment? Bad mouthing the guy who punched you in the jaw for starters. Jericho called Mike Tyson a washed up, drunken, ex-champion. He blurted this out with full knowledge that Mike Tyson was not in attendance, but he might have bee at home laughing over the swelled jaw.

Jericho's challenge for the night was the Guru of Greatness John Morrison, in a rematch from their unfinished business over the summer. Yet, how come every time these two hash it out in the ring, someone distracts John Morrison? Last time it was Shelton Benjamin and this time its the I-C Champion Drew McIntyre. During the Walls of Jericho, Morrison willed his way to the bottom rope out of hatred for the Scotsman, taunting Morrison with the I-C strap. Despite Morrison breaking away from the Walls, he fell to the Code Breaker. As for the New 'Baddest Man on the Planet,' welcome back to Friday Nights.

Saving Private "Trevor"

It's been two weeks since C.M. Punk has vowed to save the world with the pledge of Straight-Edge for All, and he has already "saved" one member of the WWE Universe. This week he saves another, by the name of Trevor. Anyone notice how each person he saves has a full head of hair and are well-built? Well... that's because they are all wrestlers.

Punk's gimmick has really gone over, despite many people getting upset over the similarity of Punk raising a cult, or tarnishing the pledge of the United States. Seeing as a lot of people hate C.M. Punk, then he must be doing something right.

Worst Concept in WWE

The worst concept in the WWE is the Fatal Four-way Tag Team match, which allows only two competitors at a time. That's right, only two people are allowed to compete at a time while the other two teams have to force a tag if someone ever stumbles into their corner. Who the hell approved of this? If anything, four competitors should be allowed at a time, at least things would be interesting, and I don't know, maybe have more than one referee to regulate the action from different angles.

This contenders match, to determine who will face D-Generation-X for the Unified Tag Team Titles, was complete and utter garbage. And I know WWE was upset seeing Jeff Hardy on the Jan. 4th edition of TNA, but to pair Matt with The Great Khali? No words or amount of blog space can express my anger over this. Cryme Tyme had a title shot against JeriShow, and failed at SummerSlam; and Hart Dynasty lost to D-X on Christmas Day. Luckily the onslaught was minimized to where C.M. Punk and Luke Gallows picked up the win. Not only is Punk gaining a following, literally, but now he has a shot to make history by becoming the first-ever "Straight-Edge" Unified Tag Team Champions in the WWE.

The Omen

The Undertaker sent a message last week to both Batista and Rey Mysterio, the two possible contenders for the World Heavyweight Championship. Undertaker shows little concern for their steel cage match, because, in his mind, no matter who wins, he will still be the champion. Then he brings up a question that the fans have been dying to learn the answer to, the Rematch against Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania. Seventeen men have faced him, and they all fell. One man chose to face him a second time, failed, and was content... that would be Kane. Yet, one man was more glorious than the rest and almost won... but in the end he still failed. On Monday, we find out the answer.

Beth Chooses a Side

For several weeks, both Mickie James and Beth Phoenix have shared sneak attacks, two weeks ago, Beth put Mick in the Glam Slam, while last week, Mick got Beth with the Mick-Kick. This my followers is what we call the rubber match (new phrase I learned and I will use it as much as possible until I get sick and tired of it, so bare with me).

Beth did not even want to wait for the bell, she just got in there and started throwing punches. These two have a long standing feud, and if anyone ever has the pleasure, these two put on great matches. Why? Because they trained to be wrestlers! They were not models contacted by WWE, "Hey, do you want to wrestle?"

Beth Phoenix eventually placed Mickie James in... wait for it.... the tree of "Whoa'.... that's for Matt Striker in case he reads this. But before Mickie could get a chance to unhook her legs, Beth failed in adhering to the 5-count and got herself disqualified. Afterwards, team Lay-Cool showed up to pick up the scraps and place her in the Styles-Plex *cough* I mean the Faith Breaker! Well... how will Mickie retaliate next week? And why Beth? Mickie has no one else to have her back seeing as Maria has a gig with Celebrity Apprentice. Didn't she just return?

Ziggler-Kane III

That's right, another hair-raising battle between the greased up cheerleader against Uncle Fester. WWE realized that Dolph Ziggler was so not ready for the I-C strap, seeing as they made him lose on 20-something occasions, and the belt has passed 2-times since staking his claim. This is pretty much WWE going back to formula, build him from the ground up, again.

Seeing as Kane has nothing better to do than being tossed over the rope by Ezekiel Jackson over on ECW, why not make him the yard stick for Ziggler's success? In their first encounter, Ziggler failed to beat the clock with a sleeper/body scissors take down; yet, after the match, Ziggler struck with the Zig-Zag. In the second match up, Ziggler won the match via a count out on the part of Kane. However, this week yielded a different result, Kane chokeslamed Ziggler for the win. Way to go Kane, you beat Dolph Ziggler. *two slow claps*

Mysterio Falls... Over!

Throughout the whole night, everyone kept focusing their attention on Rey Mysterio. Can he do it? Do you think you can do it? Do you have a shot of being the World Champion for the second time? Aren't you a little small to be competing in the WWE, the land of the giant superstars?

Well, I for one believe that Mysterio is too small to be competing here, but I also knew he would win. Why? Because he is short and fast! All you have to do in a Steel Cage Match is to escape the cage to win the match, you don't necessarily have to pin or submit your opponent.

Batista is too big and clunky to ever escape over the top of the cage so his best bet would be to pin Mysterio in the center on the ring.

Mysterio did attempt to use Batista has a stepping stone, quite literally, in order to jump out of the cage, but he would continue to be pulled in. Batista's hubris was his downfall yet again, instead of taunting your opponent, go for the cover, and then gloat. Mysterio did manage to go over the roof of the cage one last time, and left a parting gift to Batista, a drop kick to the steel door over Batista's face on the way down for the victory.

That's right, Rey Mysterio is the #1 Contender for Undertaker's World Heavyweight Championship! Just maybe, Mysterio will defying the odds and become the World Heavyweight Champion. But then again... Undertaker's not to worried about the luchador, only with the answer he has for Shawn Michaels this Monday Night on RAW.

SmackDown Results: 1/8/10

Batista Walks Alone

Since Bragging Rights, Batista has been coasting through the WWE filled with greed and anger. Last week, Batista had multiple opportunities to put away his opponent to become the #1 contender, but, instead, he chose to taunt his former friend, Rey Mysterio, as the clocked ticked away in the Beat the Clock Challenge. Since Batista interfered with Rey Mysterio World Heavyweight Title Match against The Undertaker, Mysterio cost Batista his shot at the Undertaker by pulling the referee out of the ring, thus, expiring the time. Both Batista and Rey Mysterio, thanks to the official consultant of SmackDown Vickie Guerrero, will go one-on-one to determine the #1 contender.

But what Batista speaks is true, Teddy Long is quick to restart a match that sees Batista as the winner, but doesn't even lift a finger when Batista is on the losing end. Which begs the question, which side is Teddy Long on? At the start of September, Long was manipulated by the probation placed under McMahon to have Taker 'tap out' to C.M. Punk.

As for tonight, Rey Mysterio has been the storied underdog, the man no one believed would make it in a business with musclebound giants like The Great Khali and Batista, but can he upset the critics once again, and become a 2-time World Heavyweight Champion?

Ziggler Topples Kane

The opening match featured Dolph Ziggler once against taking on the Big Red Monster Kane, a rematch from their encounter last week. Ziggler failed to advance in the Beat the Clock Challenge last week as his Headlock/Body Scissors take-down was ineffective in tapping out Kane, but what would Ziggler's best strategic ploy be?

First off, Ziggler has to stop thinking that his moves are perfection, because he obviously cannot steal the gimmick from the late Curt Henning, or execute them the way Curt did. When he connected with the Zig-Zag, Ziggler felt that he should have been awarded the win, and overreacted when Kane kicked out. Never expect an easy match in the WWE, because nothing is handed to you. While fighting in the WWE, you have to scratch and claw your way to the top. With his numerous failed attempts at capturing the I-C Title, Ziggler has not been bringing his A-game when it comes to matches.

However, Ziggler did win the match via count-out, but what happens if the next time Teddy Long changes it to a no DQ Match?

Jericho, Still the Best

The following was a six-man tag team match featuring Chris Jericho and The Hart Dynasty against R-Truth and Cryme Tyme.

When told to make an impact two weeks ago, The Hart Dynasty targeted Chris Jericho. So was he upset? Jericho understands that in order to make an impact you have to attack the top performer; so no, he was not upset... he was actually quite flattered.

The Harts saw what happened to Bret on Monday Night, and they stated that it was despicable, and it would never happen to them; because they're better than that. Are they really? The Hart Dynasty were seconds away from capturing the Unified Tag Team Titles from D-X just two weeks ago. Smith has the power, and Kidd the speed, while Natalya acts as the mouthpiece, but as for being 'better than that,' they are far off. It's a lot of pressure to put on these three young superstars, because they have decided to carry themselves on the family legacy. It's doubtful that Bret Hart will act as their mentor, seeing as he's turned face; but Chris Jericho, also a fellow graduate of the Dungeon, would make an excellent teacher.

The match went fairly well, R-Truth and Cryme Tyme brought in a lot of hard hitting strikes, and flashy maneuvers, but the Harts held up their own too. Smith slightly tilted the rope to knock off Gaspard over the top, and Natalya kicked him when he was down. Then the momentum shifted slightly when JTG almost got the pin over Jericho, but with no Gaspard to have his back, Jericho executed the original Walls of Jericho, with his knee over the face of JTG to get a submission victory.

A New Dawn, A New Salvation

Last week, C.M. Punk asked everyone in the audience and everyone at home to raise their hand and take the pledge of Straight-Edge, and vowed that he would turn people even if force is necessary. Today was the first night of salvation, as Punk has chosen to save one individual from the audience. James, just a regular guy to you and me, became a symbol of hope for a new generation of a straight-edge society. James hesitated, but who wouldn't when giving up addictive vices such as alcohol and drugs? But James accepted and pledged his heart to Straight-Edge. As a symbol of his devotion, Luke Gallows and C.M. Punk shaved his head. The hair is said to be the chains of his addiction, and when shaving his hair, he was actually releasing the vices from his life.

Matt Hardy Fails

In his first singles match, Luke Gallows made short work of Matt Hardy. Hardy attempted to amount an offense but he was unable to overpower Luke Gallows. Plus it doesn't hurt when C.M. Punk provides the distraction to be struck with the Gallows Pole. This was Luke's first singles match, so a congrats are in order.

Michelle McCool's Offering

In the Divas' Match of the night, Layla took on The Glamazon, Beth Phoenix, in what appeared to be a one-sided match. Layla, after escaping the ring with her life, was tossed back into the ring by McCool, who, after being challenged by Beth mid-match, looked to quench Phoenix's rage. Layla did provide some offense, by throwing some kicks, and wild punches to the head; but Phoenix executed the GlamSlam to end the match.

McCool may feel that she's satisfied Phoenix, but Beth will not stop until she's the Women's Champion.

Don't Mess with Mick James, B---h!

When McCool and Layla ambushed Phoenix after the match, it was Mickie James who came to the rescue and cleaned house. Beth Phoenix, appreciative of the assist went to go shake her hand, but instead she came face first with the Mick-Kick. Payback for placing Mickie James in the GlamSlam, last week.

Undertaker Sends a Message

The match between Batista and Rey Mysterio was full of surprises and superior offense. Batistia using his mass to overpower the much smaller Mysterio, while the Master of the 619 uses his entire body in an effort to keep the Animal off his feet.

Rey Mysterio, no doubt robbed Batista of his win last week, but Batista taught him a valuable lesson at Bragging Rights, there is no such thing as friendship when it comes to the World Title. In the match Mysterio attempted a Frog Splash but he bounced off of Batista, proving that Mysterio will throw his full body in danger for a shot at the title.

Batista's arrogance is his undoing, he connected with a match-winning spear, but instead of going for the cover he decided to flex his muscles to the audience. There is no time for that, he should have gone straight for the cover.

Yet, as Batista set up for the Batista Bomb, the bells chimed and the lights went out. Yes, that is the signal for the Undertaker. But, no Undertaker appeared, just the bodies of Batista and Rey Mysterio layed out. Alright, so the match continues and Rey sets up for the 619, *chimes* once again the signal for The Undertaker. But once again, no Undertaker, just the bodies aching in the ring. Undertaker's message is clear, abandon the pursuit of the World Heavyweight Championship, because it won't end well.